Stepping Into Year 1 from FS2: A Confident Start Begins with Connection

At NAISAK, the transition from Foundation Stage 2 (FS2) to Year 1 is a significant milestone in a child’s educational journey. To support this important step, the school organised a comprehensive transition program designed to ensure that students feel confident and prepared as they move into a more structured learning environment. Understanding that this change can be just as important for parents as it is for children, the school invited families to participate in a special coffee morning with the academic team.

During the coffee morning, parents had the opportunity to meet with teachers, coordinators, and members of the leadership team to gain a clearer understanding of what Year 1 entails. The academic team shared insights into the curriculum, daily routines, and expectations in Year 1, highlighting how the learning experience builds on the strong foundation developed in FS2. The session also offered a chance for parents to ask questions and discuss any concerns, helping to create a sense of reassurance and partnership between home and school.

Adding her voice to the conversation, Head of EYFS Ms. Kathleen Lyons shared her appreciation: "Thank you to all the parents who attended our recent transition workshops—it was wonderful to see so many familiar faces! We really appreciated the opportunity to share insights into the upcoming academic year and talk about what your children will be learning and experiencing. It’s fantastic to see such strong parent engagement and your commitment to working with us to support your child. While this is a very exciting change for your child, we also recognise that it can feel a little nerve-wracking—for both children and parents. Please know that we are here to support you every step of the way. We’re also looking forward to our upcoming Transition Day, which will give children the chance to spend time in their new year groups, meet their teachers, and begin building confidence for the year ahead. Our key message from the workshops is this: no matter which year group your child is moving into, we recognise every child as an individual and are dedicated to supporting their unique journey and next steps." 

As part of the transition program, children will participate in transition tester classes. These sessions will give FS2 students a taste of the Year 1 environment through engaging and age-appropriate activities led by Year 1 teachers. It will be a valuable experience for both students and parents, as families are able to witness firsthand how their children are adapting to the new routines and expectations. This thoughtful approach to transition reflects NAISAK’s commitment to creating a smooth and positive experience for all involved.